There are many different types of packers when going on vacation, though most packers fall into three distinct categories.
- Forgetful Packer
- The Perfectionist
- The Over-Packer
The Forgetful Packer tends to have the mindset that whatever is missed or forgotten can just be purchased when they get to the destination. This person, packs very light and relishes in getting to purchase new items on the trip. The Perfectionist (who is already thinking when they read the title of this, “who doesn’t use packing cubes?“) typically has an outfit planned for each day and mixes and matches pieces between different days to maximize the wear between items packed. Each item packed has a distinct purpose and place within the luggage. The Over-Packer will have outfits or pieces of clothing for the “What if” scenario.
What if we decide to go out for a nice dinner?
What if I bring this jacket, will I need the additional pair of shoes that match?
Most of us probably don’t fit in exactly just one of the categories and if you are like us, we fall into different categories depending on the type of travel. I don’t like to admit it, but more likely than not, we have a hard time not falling into the Over-Packer sometimes.
Maybe you can relate to this – there are always additional pieces of clothing you wish you could bring for the right occasion. If I didn’t care about having to drag that extra piece of luggage around, it wouldn’t matter (or maybe it is those airline baggage fees?). However, most of the travel we do we tend to move around to different locations, and it is never worth having the hassle of carting heavy luggage between each location. And if I did, I usually end up regretting it…
This is where the packing cubes have helped me the most! If you are not sure what a packing cube is, here is an example Packing Cubes. They are great to keep your luggage organized and items fit more efficiently within your luggage. Although this is true, what it has helped us is not to overpack for a trip. For each trip we assign each person
- 2 Small Packing Cubes
- 2 Medium Packing Cubes
- 1 Large Packing Cube
For the 2 small packing cubes; one can be for undergarments such as underwear, boxers, bras and socks. The second small packing cube can be for swimwear and pajamas.
The 2 medium packing cubes are split between workout clothes including yoga pants, shorts, tanks or t-shirts that typically can be worn for 3-5 workout and travel days. The medium packing cube generally holds 3-4 pairs of pants or shorts depending on the location and likely weather you expecting to experience.
The large packing cube is left for shirts, sweatshirts, sweaters and dresses that you may need.
Add in a pair of running/walking shoes, sandal and cross between dinner or going out boot/shoe and you have enough packed for two weeks in the size of a carry-on.
Now we tend to think of ourselves as low maintenance when it comes to bringing toiletries. Depending on your needs/desires you may have to expand your pack/luggage or move some items to your personal carry on. I also sometimes tend to have a few additional pieces that flow into my significant others bag as well (Don’t tell!). But packing each cube in this manner has really helped us to be fully packed in about an hour for any trip while feeling like we have the right amount of clothes.
We have also provided a Packing Checklist with items under each cube for you to use as a guide!
We would love to hear about your packing secrets or what has worked well for you. Comment or email us below!